Produced for SACAC
THE LAND OF SHEEP
Gaddi is a nomadic shepherd community that lives in the upper reaches of the Indian mountain state of Himachal Pradesh. For months, they trek through these mountains with their sheep, goats and mules in search of grazing lands. Many of them live in Bharmour tehsil of Chamba district, near the high regions of the river Ravi. But their population is on a decline. Most of these gaddis are surrendering their nomadic life in favour of permanent settlements, and are migrating to nearby towns. In the face of rapid urbanisation and governance policies that are compelling its citizens to settle down near the urban areas of Kangra district, the unique Gaddi way of life is under constant threat. Their culture is gradually eroding. Nomads are fluid communities, and thus have always been a complication for the State. The vast landscape tells a complex story with that rife with happiness and hardships. Along with a classic documentary style, I explore typological representations of their space to be able to communicate cultural erosion. I opted for a subtle approach to reflect the slow pace of life, and gradual shifts in their mountainous landscape through photographing landslides, found and abandoned objects.
- Editorial Photographer / Photojournalist
- Landscape Photographer
- Portrait Photographer